NEW: Markey Calls for People’s Pledge in Senate Special Election

Following the precedent set by Elizabeth Warren and Scott Brown in the 2012 Massachusetts Senate race, Congressman Edward Markey called for a "people's pledge" banning third-party funding ads in this year's Senate special election.

“I am challenging all of the candidates – Democrats and Republicans – in this special election for the United States Senate to join me in committing to the people’s pledge upon entering this race," Markey said in a statement.

"If all the candidates agree, we can give the voters the kind of debate they deserve. This election should be a forum for the voices of everyday voters, not attacks from Karl Rove and other outside special interests. This election should be focused on big issues and ideas, not big-money outside groups. I urge all candidates to join me in ensuring that Massachusetts once again will be the leader for the nation on this issue.”

Markey is the only candidate to formally declare his intentions to run in the special election to replace outgoing Senator John Kerry, which will take place on June 25th. Congressman Stephen Lynch is said to still be undecided on whether or not he will run.

Brown is seen as the likely candidate on the Republican side, though the former Senator has not indicated if he will make a play for a return to Washington.